Solis urges caution during hot weather

Washington – In response to heat waves occurring across the country, Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis issued a statement July 11 urging employers to take precautions to help workers avoid heat-related illnesses among workers.

Included in her recommendations:

Provide plenty of water at the jobsite and remind workers to drink it.

Schedule rest breaks throughout shifts and provide shaded or air-conditioned rest areas near the worksite.

Schedule heavy tasks for earlier in the day, when possible.

Ensure medical services are available to respond in an emergency.

“Remember: water, rest, shade – three keys to preventing heat-related illnesses in this extreme heat,” Solis said in a press release.